Ice Hockey Classic/ Melbourne Sydney June 2017

Ice Hockey Classic builds new generation of fans

The second edition of the Team USA vs Team Canada Ice Hockey Classic in Australia was a hit with fans, building a new generation of local sports fans hooked on all things North American.

The two-match exhibition series was boosted by the appearances of current NHL players Peter Holland and Adam Cracknell as key members of Team Canada for the exhibition matches in Sydney and Melbourne in June.

Arizona Coyotes centreman Holland was dominant for the Canadian side both offensively and defensively, calling on the experience of a fine career that yielded 35 goals and 46 assists in 243 NHL games.

Cracknell, a right wing for the Dallas Stars, is a veteran of seven NHL seasons and renowned for his toughness and physical play.